“The new recruits are meant to mainly manage access control at the entrance gates, provide asset security, monitor and control movement control throughout the Park as well as to conduct other policing duties that are safety and security related. As custodians of wildlife and its conservation, we warmly welcome this step as it will provide the much needed boost to the current team of ranger corps and should be seen as a necessary measure to top-up on our anti-poaching efforts”, said the KNP Managing Executive, Abe Sibiya.
The pre-selection process which took place in August 2013 required hopeful guard trainees to go through the vetting process such as language proficiency tests, criminal record checks; medical and physical fitness screening and they had to portray dedication and the right attitude; as well as team work spirit to qualify for the job.
Those who succeeded went on holistic, rigorous and intense month-long security training, followed by the passing out parade today. The deployment to the various strategic areas throughout the Park is with immediate effect, starting today.
For the past ten years, the Park outsourced its security service at the entry/exit points to private companies, as such was not totally involved in the guards’ selection and training process. “It is an absolute must that we prioritize the protection of this heritage and use every tactic which can assist in ensuring that the total control of all entry and exit points are managed by those tasked with the upkeep of the area integrity, concluded Sibiya.
The squad performs the March Past towards the end of proceedings.
Officer Commanding- Special Projects, Major General (Ret) Johan Jooste and Manager: Protection Services, Lt Col (Ret) Victor Nxumalo inspect the squad during the Security Guards’ Passing-out Parade at Skukuza.
Major General (Ret) Johan Jooste hands-over certificates to students – Sinda Micheal Mabunda – best overall, Promise Dibakwane and Edward Machete – best theoretical, Bonginkosi Malinda – best practical, Thulani Sondhale – best improved, as well as the Platoons Commanders – Corporals. Chochi, Kgoogo, Melodise and Masilela who all passed out today. Looking on is SANDF’s Sergeant Major Khumalo.
It always worried me that some vehicles just left for example no search at all. I hope the search includes all employers at the park too you cant be lax about anyone given the seriousness of the horrific poaching situation. 
